Nostalgia inspires collectors of every obsession. Attempting to revive this mood for literary enthusiasts, designers from all over the world continue to reinterpret the idea of the library, creating countless variations (and visual shortcuts) of this popular hobby. Bonkarma, a concept store in France sells book-patterned stools, a faux alternative to clunky seating that can hold up to 200kg.
Bookshelf Wallpaper:
British designer, Deborah Bowness creates hand-printed wallpaper, imitating the likeness of a 3D library as a playful 2D backdrop. Bowness’s commissions include trendy locals such as the New York Soho House and Phillip Stark’s Yoo-Aldelgade in Copenhagen.
Stacked Illusions: Spine Emphasis
The owners of this puzata hata restaurant in Kyiv left no page unturned in their interior pursuit for white-walled texture. Here is a monochromatic approach to literary decor. For set designers seeking to recreate a cheap, light-weight alternative to the age-old study, classic cardboard cutouts can be found amongst other tchotchkes at Printemps in Paris.
Textured Installation: Page Emphasis
This past November, Anthropologie disfigured and reshaped a collection of paperbacks, creating large scale floral sculptures. Each beige bookend played an integral part in crafting the unique look of the month. Toying with the idea of opposites, the installation featured on weheartit showcases hundreds of books, appearing both messy and unorganized- a stark contrast (and breathe of fresh air) from the usual line up of conservative spines.
